Is Windows 7 retail copy really for up to 3 computers?

I know this has been asked a lot, and I have googled a lot trying to find a real answer to this. I have the retail Windows 7 Home, and I have done numerous reformatting on my computer until I bought a new computer. I tried to use the same CD-Key, but it says it is an invalid product key.

I was thinking, maybe it's up to 3 installs no matter what computer, however, I have done more than 3 installs on my same computer with no problems with the product key. I have read that it's good for up to 3 computers, not 3 installs.

I'm just irritated that I spent $100 on a Windows 7, and I'm locked down to one computer, that I'm not even going to use anymore. I have my new computer built, it's just sitting here, but I have no OS to install it on since my CD key isn't valid.

Is there something I need to do to re-validate the product key?

Thanks.

Thanks, for the quick response, but I don't quite understand.

So what you're saying is, I need to get a new Windows 7 for my new computer? Or rather, I need to get Windows 7 off my old computer? When I tried to install on my new computer, my old computer was not on.

I see....thanks. Man these Windows 7 forums are super active, I get instant replies. Thanks! Now it looks like I need to buy another copy. =(


It's also misleading when people say, good for up to 3 computers....but not at the same time.

WiL11o6 said:

I know this has been asked a lot, and I have googled a lot trying to find a real answer to this. I have the retail Windows 7 Home, and I have done numerous reformatting on my computer until I bought a new computer. I tried to use the same CD-Key, but it says it is an invalid product key.

I was thinking, maybe it's up to 3 installs no matter what computer, however, I have done more than 3 installs on my same computer with no problems with the product key. I have read that it's good for up to 3 computers, not 3 installs.

I'm just irritated that I spent $100 on a Windows 7, and I'm locked down to one computer, that I'm not even going to use anymore. I have my new computer built, it's just sitting here, but I have no OS to install it on since my CD key isn't valid.

Is there something I need to do to re-validate the product key?

Thanks.

At worst it may require a call to MS phone activation.

If it says invalid key, it may be the version is wrong, (ie an OEM key and a retail version of the OS).

North America : (800) 936-5800 (MS phone support)

No, just install it on your new computer and use the automated telephone activation wizard thus:

Click the Start button and type slui.exe 4 in the Search field then press Enter to bring up the Activation Wizard.

Use the drop-down list to choose your location then click Next.

Call the free telephone number and follow the automated instructions.

You'll be asked whether you are a home or business computer user and how many computers you have installed Windows on - one is the answer required.

You'll be asked to key in the Installation ID using your telephone touchpad, after which you'll be informed your request is accepted and the new Activation ID will be read back to you.

At this stage, my advice would be to write down the Activation ID first, and then enter it into the relevant boxes in case you need to activate in the future.

When you've entered the Activation ID into the wizard, click Next and Windows should activate.

Thanks for the replies, the problem is not within trying to activate Windows 7. The problem is I cannot even get onto the desktop. I am stuck at the product key page, when I'm trying to setup my account log in name and password. It says invalid product key.

But it's already been answered I guess. I didn't buy the Windows 7 Family Pack, so I am only limited to one computer.